1.3 Million Americans Left $686 Million in Unclaimed Tax Refunds
More than 1.3 million Americans missed out on tax refunds for 2022 by not filing their federal returns last year. The unclaimed funds now sit with the IRS, waiting to be collected. Taxpayers still have time to act—but the window is closing soon.
The IRS estimates the median unclaimed refund for 2022 stands at $686. Some states show even higher averages, with Massachusetts leading at $786, followed closely by Hawaii at $784. California tops the list for the most unclaimed refunds, with around 143,200 residents leaving $124.7 million on the table. Texas follows, with 126,000 people and $111.7 million in unclaimed money.
To claim a refund, taxpayers need to file their 2022 return within three years of the original deadline. After that, the funds permanently transfer to the U.S. Treasury. Those missing paperwork can use the IRS's *Get Transcript Online* tool or submit Form 4506-T to retrieve necessary documents. Some refunds could grow larger due to unclaimed tax credits. The Earned Income Tax Credit alone was worth up to $6,935 in 2022. However, refunds may be reduced or withheld if a taxpayer owes back taxes, child support, or other federal debts.
The deadline to claim 2022 refunds is fast approaching. Taxpayers must file their returns before the three-year limit expires to recover their money. Without action, the funds will remain with the government and cannot be reclaimed later.
